There’s something special about being in a room full of people who believe in creativity. That sense of energy, laughter, and possibility, it’s hard to describe, but it’s what makes evenings like our Autumn Social at The Rock in Walsall so powerful.

The Autumn Social 2025 brought together artists, community groups, partners, and friends from across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, and Wolverhampton to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the creativity that lives and breathes in the Black Country.

At a time when the world can feel increasingly divided, when there’s so much focus on difference and tension, gatherings like this show another truth: That creativity and community can bring people together across backgrounds, beliefs and experiences. They create spaces where people see one another fully, not as strangers, but as neighbours.

This year marks more than ten years of Creative Black Country helping local people shape and enjoy creative experiences where they live. And there was good news to celebrate, with renewed funding from Arts Council England, the team will keep this work going for at least another three years.

While the arts are under pressure, that support isn’t just a win for Creative Black Country. It’s a win for the whole region. Because in moments of social tension, creativity gives us something profoundly human to hold onto, a way to listen, to express, and to build understanding together.

The evening’s activities reflected that spirit perfectly. Guests tried Bargello stitching with Odette Campbell and made leather keyrings with Lauren Broxton and Michelle Randall, using stamps kindly provided by the Walsall Leather Museum. Around every table there were conversations, laughter, and moments of quiet concentration; proof of how creativity helps us connect.

“Culture isn’t a luxury, it’s how we understand who we are, where we live and what we stand for. Gatherings like this remind us that creativity isn’t just about projects or funding, it’s about people, about the joy we find in coming together, sharing stories, and recognising that culture belongs to everyone.”

These events remind us that creativity can bridge the gaps, that joy, art, and shared experience can build belonging where there might otherwise be distance.

Special thanks to Andy and Tracey at The Rock Church for their warm hospitality.